Motorists

As a motorist, there are elements within the vehicle that you can control to minimize the distractions to which you will be most susceptible while driving. Though some of these distractions may not seem threatening, remember that in just two seconds of distraction, you will travel almost 30 metres at a speed of 50 km/hr. A lot can happen in that distance.

Before getting behind the wheel, use these tips to reduce preventable distractions:

Eat/drink before you get in the car. It may not seem like much, but taking time to eat breakfast or a snack before you leave means you can concentrate on the road — and keep both hands on the wheel, where they should be.

Turn off your cell phone. Talking on your phone while driving takes your mind off the road, because you're concentrating on the conversation.

Pre-program radio stations and/or fill your CD changer. Radio/CD buttons are small and can easily be missed if you're trying to do two things at once. Take a few moments and pre-program the station you want to listen to, or load the CDs you want into your changer before you start the car.

Prepare your children for the trip. When you buckle them in, make sure kids have easy access to any toys or snacks you want them to have on each leg of the trip. In-vehicle DVD players can be very distracting for the driver, but if you feel you must have one, have it installed out of sight of the driver and in a way that precludes operation by the driver while driving. If, during the drive, your young passengers begin to fight, cry, or ask for something, pull over at a safe time and place and tend to their needs while stopped.

Finish your personal grooming before you leave home. Applying lipstick or tying your tie while driving is not only a two-handed distraction — it's also a good way to injure yourself!

Check your mood. If you're angry, frustrated or very upset, wait until you've calmed down before you climb behind the wheel.

Keep the conversation light and to a minimum. If you're driving with a passenger, let them know their safety is your first priority, not your conversation.

Don't smoke in the car. If you need a cigarette, pull over to a safe spot and take a break. The distraction of lighting a cigarette, or having hot ash fall into your lap can be a dangerous distraction — in more ways than one!

Secure loose items on your dash, rear view mirror or vacant seats. If you can't secure these items, put them in your trunk, or leave them at home. Sharp turns or abrupt stops will cause these things to fly — creating a (noisy) distraction.

Don't rubberneck. If you pass an accident on the side of the road, or a new billboard, remember to keep your eyes on the road — not what's happening beside it! Chances are other drivers are attracted by the same event, and may not be paying attention to where they're going.

Review maps and directions before leaving. If possible, ask a passenger to be your navigator so you can concentrate on the road while they read the map and watch for signs and landmarks.

Remove visual obstructions. Consider getting rid of anything that obstructs a clear view of your mirrors and windows, such as air fresheners dangling from your rearview mirror, bumper stickers in your back window, etc.

And if you must deal with a momentary distraction on the road, monitor traffic conditions before engaging in activities that could divert your attention away from driving.